Bell’s Palsy Treatment In Mississauga

Bell’s Palsy Treatment

Bell’s Palsy is a condition involving a lesion (damage or wounded) of the facial nerve number 7. This results in flaccid paralysis (weakness or reduced muscle tone) of the muscles used for facial expression on the same side of the damaged or wounded nerve. This weakness causes one side of the face to droop. The nerve damage may affect your sense of taste and how you make saliva and tears.

The causes of Bell’s Palsy are not entirely understood but some scientists believe a viral or common cold sore virus may contribute to Bell’s Palsy. Facial muscles that are swollen or inflamed or compressed may compress the facial nerve causing Bell’s Palsy (these compressed or swollen muscles can occur by a blow to the face but could be of unknown origin). Exposure to a chill or draft while sleeping may contribute to Bell’s Palsy.

Common Signs And Symptoms Of Bell’s Palsy

• Can be rapid unilateral (one sided) weakness followed by flaccid paralysis of the muscles of facial expression
• Inability to raise eyebrows
• Incomplete closure of the eye
• Loss of blinking reflex – results in tears or lack of tears
• Cannot actively flare nostrils
• Inability to raise the corners of the mouth or to whistle
• Difficulty with eating
• Facial sagging or drooping on one side